Summary of 24 Hours in Nice
Face it: sometimes you don’t have a great deal of time to spend in a city. However, I’ve learned that you can pack a lot into just 24 hours if you plan ahead and prioritize your activities. Here’s what I did during my brief visit to Nice, France. By Susan Guillory.
On a recent trip to Provence, I flew into Nice. Having spent a handful of days there as a college student, I was eager to retrace my steps in this beautiful seaside city. With only a single day before heading to a yoga retreat amid the grapevines, I needed to make the most of my time.
Float in the Water
If you only do one thing, make it swimming in the Mediterranean.
My friend Rose and I, who met me in Nice, bought inexpensive €3 straw mats to settle on the smooth but bumpy stones lining the shore. She had never experienced Nice, nor floated in the sea. The water was cool yet comfortable enough for swimming. We ventured out a bit from the shore, which was surprisingly empty at 10 am in September, and then laid back, allowing the calming waves to carry us.
This experience was nothing short of magical. The sound of rocks clattering beneath the sea created a soothing melody, while the water shifted colors as clouds drifted overhead. This was pure happiness.
Bonus Tip: Early fall is an excellent time to visit Nice, as the water remains warm and inviting in September. You’ll find fewer crowds, particularly in the late morning, making it easier to enjoy the beach.
Eat Some Niçoise Cuisine
Something intriguing about Nice is its unique cuisine, which locals take great pride in. Only one other city in France—Lyon—has a cuisine named after it. In Nice, it’s referred to as Niçoise, an eclectic blend of French and Italian flavors due to its proximity to the Italian border.
For an authentic taste, look for dishes like pan bagnat, salade Niçoise, socca, and pissaladière. Of course, you can’t go wrong with their unique pizzas, which differ from those in the US and even other regions of Italy.
While you’ll find plenty of dining options, seek out places displaying a sign that reads “Cuisine Nissarde,” indicating certification in Niçoise cuisine. A notable example is Lu Fran Calin, an excellent restaurant specializing in Niçoise dishes, as well as some Italian specialties.
Bonus Tip: While local cuisine is delightful, don’t miss trying a pizza topped with fruits de mer (seafood, including baby octopus). The unique flavors in Nice will take your pizza experience to another level.
Take Photos at the Cours Saleya Market
I have a soft spot for vibrant French markets, and the open-air market at Cours Saleya is exceptionally picturesque. Here, you can find an array of items, from zucchini blossoms and honey to flowers and peppers.
Since I usually don’t have access to a kitchen while traveling for only a day or two, I often feel disheartened about not being able to purchase the gorgeous produce. However, you’ll discover a few stands selling local treats like meringue and candy to take home.
Bonus Tip: For the best lighting in your photos, aim to visit mid-morning. Additionally, going midweek will allow you to avoid the large crowds.
Mount the Colline du Château
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore a beautiful park overlooking Nice, where you can see the iconic Promenade des Anglais; a favorite walkway for tourists and locals alike. This area, known as Colline du Château (Castle Hill), once housed a castle, although it no longer remains.
This public area is fantastic for enjoying a baguette and cheese, listening to an accordion player, or watching children play. Moreover, it’s an ideal spot for selfies with the stunning coastline in the background!
Bonus Tip: Choose your method to reach the top—tackle the 300 stairs for a workout or take the elevator for a more relaxing ascent.
Have a Drink at the Beach
While Nice has numerous museums to explore, if your time is limited, I suggest unwinding at one of the beach bars during sunset. Order a refreshing Spritz Aperol, a delightful Italian cocktail made with prosecco and a bitter citrus liqueur called Aperol, which comes in a vibrant neon orange.
Rose and I opted for our hotel’s bar, Hotel Riviera. Although we had to wait for a seat, enjoying the breathtaking view of blue and white chairs and umbrellas lining the beach, accompanied by the sunset, was worth it.
Bonus Tip: Since many people flock to beachfront bars for sunset views, aim to arrive well before sunset to secure a table.
Relax after the Beach
Nice offers a wealth of hotel options, particularly near the Promenade des Anglais, providing easy access to the beach at various price points. I recommend the Hotel Riviera, a 4-star property just a block from the beach, known for reasonable rates (we paid under €100 per person per night) and a lovely beach bar.
Spending just 24 hours in Nice made me realize that I would need to plan a more extended visit in the future. Unfortunately, we didn’t even have time to explore the charming winding alleys of Old Town or the shopping district.
If you prefer staying slightly removed from the beach’s hustle and bustle, consider Villa Victoria Hotel. This serene property is just a 10-minute walk from both the beach and the shopping district, featuring a beautiful courtyard garden that serves as a dining and bar area.
